The actress who stars alongside Lupita Nyong'o and David Oyelowo in the Mouse House's 'Queen of Katwe' passed away in hospital following her battle with brain tumor.
- February 17, 2020
AceShowbiz - Actress Nikita Pearl Waligwa has died after battling with a brain tumour.
The 15-year-old star played Gloria in Disney's "Queen of Katwe", taking on the role of a friend of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi, alongside Lupita Nyong'o and David Oyelowo.
She was first diagnosed with the tumour in 2016 and, after radiotherapy, she was told she was cancer-free a year later. However, another tumour was detected in 2019, and the teenager passed away at TMR International Hospital in the Ugandan capital Kampala on Saturday, February 15, 2020, according to local media.
A family member said she was in a lot of pain, adding, "The brain was swollen and it is exerting a lot of pressure," according to Britain's The Sun newspaper.
Staff at Nikita's Gayaza High School tweeted about the sad news, sharing, "Far thee well Nikita Pearl Waligwa. You were a darling to many and we have lost you to brain tumour at such a tender age. Nikita was in (year) S.3. Rest in Perfect Peace dear."
Tributes have also been pouring from fans, who offered their condolences to the young actress.
